Weighted blankets provide various benefits to improve sleep, mindfulness, stress relief, and various conditions.
The recommended weight should be close to 10 percent of your body weight, which can be around 5 lb. for a child, or a 15-pound blanket for an adult, for example.
For greater comfort, you can choose a heavy blanket between 7 and 15 percent, depending on whether you prefer a slightly heavier weighted blanket or a bit lighter, for greater comfort.
How to Choose a Weighted Blanket
Several factors must be considered if you’re buying a weighted blanket for the first time. Ideally, you can start with a duvet cover of roughly ten percent of your weight.
Since there are plenty of options, it’s essential to review your options before deciding on the best-weighted blanket. The key characteristics you’ll review before buying include:
- The size and weight of the blanket, the type of material, and whether you can find the right fit based on a weighted blanket weight chart.
- Pricing can vary, and it’s a good idea to review how much you’re looking to spend and how other factors may impact the cost, such as the brand, material, and filling.
- How easy is the blanket to maintain; is it easy to care for, or does it require specific treatments and cleaning to keep its quality?
- The interior filling material can vary from plastic pellets and glass beads to sand.
The goal of choosing a weighted blanket is to find a cover that makes you feel more relaxed so that you can enjoy a sound sleep without stress or anxiety.
You may choose to buy one to improve the quality of your sleep, or it may be suggested by a specialist to treat a sleep disorder, a mental health condition, or restless leg syndrome.
The Benefits of a Weighted Blanket
What makes a weighted blanket a good option in comparison to regular bedding?
These heavy blankets provide extra weight that is soothing by applying deep touch pressure onto your body, which can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, resulting in a calming effect, lowering your heart rate, and reducing anxiety.
You’ll find the pressure therapy applies consistently over your body, which gives you the sensation of being held or hugged, a soothing and reassuring experience.
If you’re uncertain about sleeping with a heavy cover, you can start with a lighter blanket to enjoy the therapeutic benefits, then progress to a heavier weight to increase this sensation.
Additional Factors for Selecting the Right Weighted Blanket
While finding the right weighted blanket is ideal for many people, it’s essential to determine if there are any risks and whether a heavier or lighter blanket is a good option.
Generally, weighted blankets are safe, but it’s essential to consult a medical professional or a sleep expert if you have sleep apnea, respiratory issues, or poor circulation.
Children can safely use weighted blankets, though most weighted products are designed for ages five and up, as they are not meant for babies or smaller kids.
There are many brand varieties to choose from, such as the Gravity blanket, Hush blanket, or the Layla weighted blanket. They are safe to use during pregnancy, though you can choose a lighter weight if it’s more comfortable than a heavier option.
You’ll enjoy the heat that weighted blankets provide. However, due to their heavy structure, and the type of filler materials, you may experience excessive heat during the warmer months, which makes it ideal during the winter.
Fortunately, many weighted covers offer essential elements to increase comfort, such as built-in cooling and lightweight filling to regulate temperature and better ventilation.
Alternatives to Weighted Blankets
If you’re looking for similar benefits without a weighted blanket, there are other options you can try before you invest in a heavy cover.
A weighted vest can provide deep pressure stimulation that can aid the quality of your sleep. You may also find greater comfort in choosing the best memory foam mattress or several lightweight blankets to determine if a slight increase in weight will provide a sound rest.
Adding a body pillow or more oversized cushions may also provide a calming sensation that can help you sleep. Try a few different methods to accommodate a good night’s rest, whether you’re buying a weighted blanket or looking for an alternative option.
Summary
When you pair the perfect weighted blanket with the best pillow and the best mattress, you may experience the ultimate sleeping experience that can provide immeasurable comfort, security, and relief from various health issues.
Once you find the correct weight for your blanket, you’ll enjoy the benefits of improved sleep and relaxation.
